THE ELDER. 



127 



I suppose so^ Sir/' said Harriet ; and 

 what branches will not do that ?" 



I should rather say — that as insects can- 

 not endure the smell of this shrub^ fruit-trees 

 and other things that have been strongly 

 whipped with boughs of elder^ will not be at- 

 tacked by them. Elder flowers impart an 

 agreeable flavour to water and to vinegar^ 

 which some find refreshing and useful in hot 

 weather. I suppose^ I need not add that a 

 favourite winter cordial is made from the ripe 

 berries^ and called elder wine. The pith out 

 of the young shoots is cut into balls for elec- 

 trical experiments^ and into toys for children. 

 So now we will take leave of our elder friend, 

 but not of owe youthful companions." 



Thank you. Sir/' replied the favoured 

 parties. 



